The NHL Department of Player Safety announced that Toronto Maple Leafs forward Alexander Kerfoot has been suspended two games for boarding.
Toronto’s Alexander Kerfoot has been suspended for two games for Boarding Colorado’s Erik Johnson. https://t.co/Q1i23tNvVr
— NHL Player Safety (@NHLPlayerSafety) November 25, 2019
Alexander Kerfoot Suspended
On Saturday night, an incident occurred between Kerfoot and Colorado Avalanche defenceman Erik Johnson. With the Maple Leafs on the attack, Kerfoot made a dangerous play forechecking the puck. While playing the puck behind his own net, Kerfoot cross-checked Johnson from behind. This caused Johnson to crash into the boards headfirst. The referee gave Kerfoot a penalty for boarding on the play. Soon after the league announced Kerfoot would have a hearing on Monday.
This is Kerfoot’s first time in front of the Department of Player Safety. Along with the suspension, Kerfoot will forfeit US$37,634.40 in salary. Kerfoot knows this was a bone-headed play. And one he should not have made. Now Kerfoot will pay a penalty for his action.
This was Kerfoot’s second game back after undergoing surgery to repair facial dental fractures. In 22 games this season, Kerfoot has five goals and three assists. He is currently on a six-game pointless streak. Kerfoot will miss the remainder of the Maple Leafs road trip. He is eligible to return Saturday against the Buffalo Sabres.
Going Forward
With Kerfoot out of the lineup for two games, look for either Dmytro Timashov or Nick Shore to take his spot in the lineup. Even though Kerfoot is not putting up the points, this puts the Maple Leafs in a tough spot. Already without Mitch Marner, they have lost another forward upfront.
The Maple Leafs have found new life under new coach Sheldon Keefe after firing Mike Babcock. This will be a missed opportunity for Kerfoot. Hecould finally be put in a position to succeed with the Leafs playing to their potential. That chance will now be put on hold.
TORONTO, ON – NOVEMBER 09: Toronto Maple Leafs Center Alexander Kerfoot (15) passes the puck during the regular season NHL game between the Philadelphia Flyers and Toronto Maple Leafs on November 9, 2019 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, ON. (Photo by Gerry Angus/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
